Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
EXIT ROW TABLE
FOR AN AIRCRAFT
Cross-Reference to Related Application and Claim of Priority
100011 The present application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent
application no.
61/823,567 filed on May 15, 2013.
Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention concerns a construction for a table in an
aircraft.
Specifically, the present invention concerns a table in an aircraft that is
contemplated to be
positioned adjacent to an emergency exit, where the table includes features
that facilitate egress
from the aircraft in the event of an emergency. The present invention also is
contemplated to be
employed on a smaller aircraft such as a private aircraft or a corporate
aircraft, particularly a jet
aircraft.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] Passenger seating adjacent to an emergency exit row presents unique
engineering
challenges when configuring the interior of an aircraft.
[0004] As should be apparent to any traveler, in the event of an
emergency, it is
necessary for the passenger to be provided with access to the emergency exit.
This includes
access to a doorway or to an emergency exit window. For purposes of the
discussion that
follows, the term "emergency exit location" is intended to refer to any point
of egress from an
aircraft, regardless of the mode of egress (i.e., a door or window).
[0005] Ensuring access to an emergency egress location may involve any of
a number of
different design parameters. For example, the aisle providing access to the
emergency egress
location may be wider than other aisles on board the aircraft.
[0006] Separately, it is known that some aircraft designers provide
removable tables for
passenger seats that are adjacent to an emergency exit location. The removable
tables are
intended to be separable from the passenger seat. In this design, any person
who tries to access
1
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the emergency exit location may remove the table from the seat, thereby
removing any
obstruction that might discourage access to the emergency location.
[0007] As should be apparent to those skilled in the art, there are still
further design
alterations that may be made to assure access to emergency exit locations.
[0008] One deficiency that has been identified in the prior art lies in the
fact that a side
table is not easily provided to a passenger who is seated near to an emergency
exit location.
[0009] It is in the context of this confluence of factors that the present
invention was
developed.
Summary of the Invention
[0010] The present invention addresses one or more of the deficiencies
noted with
respect to the prior art.
[0011] , In one contemplated embodiment, the present invention provides
a table for an
aircraft that includes a table surface deployable between a retracted position
and a deployed
position, an arm having a first end and a second end, the arm supporting the
table surface at the
first end, a support connected to the arm at the second end, the support
connecting the arm to a
structure interior to the aircraft, a sensor within the aircraft to detect if
a seat adjacent to the table
surface is occupied, and a mechanism for retracting the table surface to the
retracted position if
the sensor detects at least one of that the seat is not occupied and that the
aircraft flight mode
meets predetermined criteria.
[0012] It is contemplated that the mechanism may hold the table surface in
a
predetermined position if the seat is occupied and also, possibly, if the
aircraft flight mode meets
predetermined criteria.
[0013] It is also contemplated that the exit row table includes a locking
mechanism for
locking the table surface in a predetermined position between the retracted
position and the
deployed position if the sensor detects that the seat is occupied and the
aircraft flight mode meets
predetermined criteria.
[0014] The exit row table of the present invention is contemplated to
include a table
surface that includes at least a first leaf and a second leaf that pivotally
connected to one another.
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[0015] The exit row table of the present invention also may include a table
support pivot
disposed at the first end of the arm, permitting rotation of the table surface
about the table
support pivot.
[0016] It is also contemplated that the exit row table includes an arm
pivot disposed at
the second end of the arm, permitting rotation of the arm about the arm pivot.
[0017] In one embodiment, the exit row table of the present invention
includes an
extension disposed at the first end of the arm, permitting the table surface
to be moved between
the retracted position and the deployed position. The extension may be
parallel to the arm. The
extension may be disposed at an angle with respect to the arm.
[0018] The exit row table is contemplated to be stowable in a sideboard or
an arm rest on
the aircraft.
[0019] With respect to one or more embodiments of the exit row of the
present invention,
it is contemplated that the sensor is disposed in the seat and detects if a
weight on the seat
exceeds a predetermined amount.
[0020] The retraction mechanism may be at least one of a pneumatic damper,
a hydraulic
damper, a spring, and a servo motor.
[0021] The locking mechanism may be at least one of an electrical lock and
a mechanical
lock.
[0022] The aircraft flight mode is contemplated to exclude conditions
associated with
taxi, takeoff, and landing, among other flight conditions for which the exit
table is recommended
to be returned to the retracted position.
[0023] The present invention also is contemplated to encompass a method of
operation of
an exit row table for an aircraft that includes a table surface deployable
between a retracted
position and a deployed position, an arm having a first end and a second end,
the arm supporting
the table surface at the first end, a support connected to the arm at the
second end, the support
connecting the arm to a structure interior to the aircraft, a sensor within
the aircraft to detect if a
seat adjacent to the table surface is occupied, and a mechanism for retracting
the table surface to
the retracted position if the sensor detects at least one of that the seat is
not occupied and that the
aircraft flight mode meets predetermined criteria. The method is contemplated
to include
determining if predetermined flight conditions exist, determining if the seat
is occupied, and
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retracting the table surface to the retracted position if the sensor detects
at least one of that the
seat is not occupied and that the aircraft flight mode meets predetermined
criteria.
[0024] In another contemplated embodiment, where the exit row table further
includes a
locking mechanism for locking the table surface in a predetermined position
between the
retracted position and the deployed position if the sensor detects that the
seat is occupied and the
aircraft flight mode meets predetermined criteria, the method includes
generating an unlock
command if the seat is not occupied and predetermined flight conditions exist,
wherein an unlock
command unlocks the locking mechanism. With respect to this embodiment, the
method also
includes retracting the table surface in response to the unlock command.
[0025] The steps of determining if the seat is occupied are contemplated to
be performed
periodically.
[0026] The present invention also provides for an exit row table that
includes a table
surface deployable between a retracted position and a deployed position, an
arm having a first
end and a second end, the arm supporting the table surface at the first end, a
scissor connected to
the arm for deploying the arm and table surface between a first position to a
second position, and
a support connected to the arm at the second end, the support connecting the
arm to a structure
interior to the aircraft.
[0027] In this embodiment, the first position is contemplated to be within
a compaltalent,
such as a side ledge or armrest, and the second position is at least partially
exterior to the
compartment.
[0028] In another embodiment of the invention, it is contemplated that the
exit row table
will include an actuator connected to the scissor for applying a force on the
arm to deploy the
arm between the first position and the second position. As such, the scissor
is contemplated to
be responsive to a momentary application of a force to deploy the table
surface between the first
and second positions.
[0029] Further aspects of the present invention will be made apparent form
the
paragraphs that follow.
Brief Description of the Drawing(s)
[0030] The present invention will now be described in connection with the
drawing
appended hereto, in which:
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[0031] Fig. 1 is a perspective illustration of a typical aircraft on which
the exit row table
of the present invention may be installed;
[0032] Fig. 2 is a top view of one contemplated arrangement for an
emergency exit row
seat, after the exit row table has been deployed;
[0033] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a prototype of the exit row table
illustrated in Fig.
2, shown in a position where the exit row table is partially extracted from a
sideboard adjacent to
the passenger's seat;
[0034] Fig. 4 is a perspective illustration of the exit row table depicted
in Fig. 3, showing
the exit row table at a position where the exit row table is fully extracted
from the sideboard and
rotated forwardly;
[0035] Fig. 5 is a perspective illustration of the exit row table shown in
Fig. 3, where the
exit row table is unfolded in front of the passenger.
[0036] Fig. 6 is a perspective illustration of one contemplated embodiment
of a
mechanism that may be employed with the exit row table illustrated in Fig. 3,
the mechanism
being positionable within the sideboard and being shown in a fully retracted
condition.
[0037] Fig. 7 is a perspective illustration of the mechanism illustrated in
Fig. 6, where the
mechanism has deployed the exit row table from within the sideboard;
[0038] Fig. 8 is a perspective illustration of the mechanism illustrated in
Fig. 6, after the
table support structure of the mechanism has been shifted forward so that the
exit row table may
be unfolded in front of the passenger;
[0039] Fig. 9 is perspective illustration of the mechanism illustrated in
Fig. 6, where the
table support structure has been deployed in an opened position;
[0040] Fig. 10 is a graphical, top view of a first contemplated embodiment
of the exit
row table of the present invention, showing the exit row table in a retracted
position above the
passenger seat;
[0041] Fig. 11 is a graphical, top view of the first embodiment of the exit
row table of the
present invention, showing the exit row table in a deployed position, which is
displaced forward
of the retracted position;
[0042] Fig. 12 is a graphical, top view of a second embodiment of the exit
row table of
the present invention, showing the exit row table in the retracted position
above the passenger
seat, consistent with the position illustrated in Fig. 10;
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[0043] Fig. 13 is a graphical, top view of the second embodiment of the
exit row table of
the present invention, showing the exit row table in the deployed position,
consistent with the
position illustrated in Fig. 11;
[0044] Fig. 14 is a graphical, top view of a third embodiment of the exit
row table of the
present invention, showing the exit row table in the retracted position above
the passenger seat,
consistent with the position illustrated in Fig. 10;
[0045] Fig. 15 is a graphical, top view of the third embodiment of the exit
row table of
the present invention, showing the exit row in the deployed position,
consistent with the position
illustrated in Fig. 11;
[0046] Fig. 16 is a graphical, top view of a portion of the exit row table
illustrated in
Figs. 10-11;
[0047] Fig. 17 is a graphical, top view of a portion of the exit row table
illustrated in
Figs. 12-13;
[0048] Fig. 18 is a graphical, top view of a portion of the exit row table
illustrated in
Figs. 14-15;
[0049] Fig. 19 is a graphical, side view of the exit row table and some of
the associated
components that are illustrated for the first, second, and third embodiments
of the exit row table
according to the present invention;
[0050] Fig. 20 is a flow chart depicting aspects of one method contemplated
for operation
of the exit row table of the present invention;
[0051] Fig. 21 is a graphical side view of another embodiment of an exit
row table
according to the present invention; and
[0052] Fig. 22 is a flow chart depicting aspects of a method contemplated
for operation
of the exit row table illustrated in Fig. 21.
Detailed Description of Embodiment(s) of the Invention
[0053] The present invention will now be described in connection with one
or more
embodiments thereof. The discussion of the embodiments is not intended to be
limiting of the
present invention. To the contrary, any discussion of embodiments is intended
to exemplify the
breadth and scope of the present invention. As should be apparent to those
skilled in the art,
variations and equivalents of the embodiment(s) described herein may be
employed without
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departing from the scope of the present invention. Those variations and
equivalents are intended
to be encompassed by the scope of the present patent application.
[0054] The present invention will now be discussed in the content of the
construction of a
jet aircraft where one or more jet engines (also referred to as turbine
engines or turbofan engines)
are affixed (or attached) to each wing of the aircraft. While the invention is
discussed in this
context, the present invention is not intended to be limited solely to the
construction of aircraft
with wing-born jet engines. It is contemplated that the present invention may
be employed in
connection with any type of aircraft.
[0055] With respect to the discussion that follows, it is noted that
specific directional
conventions are assumed to be known to those skilled in the art. The
directional conventions are
consistent with the forward travel direction of the aircraft In this context,
the term "forward" (or
its equivalent) refers to the front end (or bow end) of the aircraft. The term
"rear" (or its
equivalent) refers to the aft end (back end or stern) of the aircraft. The
term "right side" (or its
equivalent) refers to the right side (or starboard side) of the aircraft as
defined by the forward and
aft ends of the aircraft. The term "left side" (or its equivalent) refers to
the left side (or port side)
of the aircraft, also as defined by the fore and aft ends thereof.
[0056] Additionally, the term "longitudinal" refers to the longitudinal
direction of the
aircraft that extends from the front end to the rear end of the aircraft. The
term "lateral" refers to
the lateral direction of the aircraft that extends from the right side to the
left side of the aircraft
(i.e., as defined by the aircraft's wingspan). As should be apparent, the
lateral direction is
orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. The terms "up" (or top) and "down"
(or bottom) refer to
a vertical direction or orientation of the aircraft when the aircraft is
parked on the ground.
[0057] Fig. 1 is a perspective illustration of an aircraft 10 to which the
exit row table of
the present invention applies. By way of introduction, the aircraft 10
includes a fuselage 12
longitudinally defining a forward end 14 and a rear (or aft) end 16. Two wings
18, 20 extend
laterally from the fuselage 12. A tail section 22 (or empennage) is attached
to the rear end 16 of
the aircraft. As should be apparent to those skilled in the art, the wings 18,
20 and the tail
section 22 incorporate multiple control surfaces that are responsible for the
flying characteristics
and operation of the aircraft 10. Two engines 24, 26 are suspended from and
connect to the
wings 18, 20, as illustrated.
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[0058] Fig. 2 is a top view of one contemplated embodiment of an exit row
table 30
according to the present invention. As should be apparent, Fig. 2 is a top
view of a portion of the
interior of the aircraft 10 depicted in Fig. 1. A passenger seat 32 is
positioned near to the exit
row table 30 such that the exit row table 30 extends partially over the
passenger seat 32. The exit
row table 30 is a stowable table, as discussed in the paragraphs that follow.
[0059] In this illustration, it is noted that the passenger seat 32 is
forward-facing and is
disposed adjacent to a sideboard 34 extending along a port (or left side)
section of the fuselage
12 of the aircraft 10. The exit row table 30 is connected to the sideboard 34
and extends from a
mechanism (discussed in greater detail below) that is disposed within the
sideboard 34. The exit
row table 30 is contemplated to be stowable in the sideboard 34.
[0060] For reference, the passenger seat 32 includes a seat cushion 36, two
arm rests 38,
40, a back rest 42, and a head rest 44. It is noted that these elements of the
passenger seat 32 are
merely illustrative of one embodiment of a passenger seat 32 that may be used
in combination
with the exit row table 30 of the present invention. Any alternative passenger
seat 32 may be
positioned within the aircraft 10 without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[0061] In addition, it is noted that a sideboard 34 is not required for
stowage of the exit
row table 30 according to the present invention. It is contemplated that the
exit row table 30 may
be stowed in a compartment in one of the armrests 38, 40 of the passenger seat
32 without
departing from the scope of the present invention. In this regard, it is noted
that the exit row
table 30 is contemplated to be disposed in one of the armrests 38, 40 in the
instance where the
seat 32 is rotatable in its position within the aircraft 10.
[0062] The sideboard 34 includes an openable cover 46. The cover 46 is
contemplated to
tilt upwardly and toward the fuselage wall 48 of the aircraft 10, thereby
permitting the passenger
to access the interior of the sideboard 34 and deploy the exit row table 30
therefrom. As
illustrated in Fig. 2, after the exit row table 30 is deployed, the cover 46
is contemplated to be
returned to its original position, thereby presenting a top surface for the
sideboard 34 that closes
off access to the interior compartment of the sideboard 34. As illustrated in
Fig. 2, the exit row
table 30 is supported by an arm 50 that is connected to an arm pivot 52. The
arm pivot 52
permits the arm 50 to pivot with respect to the sideboard 34.
[0063] With continued reference to Fig. 2, it is noted that the passenger
seat 32 includes a
seat belt 54. In addition, the exit row table 30 includes a table surface 56
with a first leaf 58 and
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a second leaf 60. The first leaf 58 and the second leaf 60 are pivotally
connected to one another
so that the second leaf 60 may fold over the first leaf 58 prior to stowage of
the exit row table 30
in the sideboard 34.
[0064] As
should be apparent to those skilled in the art, exit rows on an aircraft 10
are
subject to particular regulations that, in summary, require the exit rows of
the aircraft 10 to
remain unobstructed during an emergency. As a result, any tables that are
deployable in
association with seats in exits rows are subjected to these additional
requirements. These
requirements limit the manner in which tables may be deployed in connection
with such seats.
As noted above, tables provided for seats in exit rows typically have limited
adjustability so that
they comply with applicable regulations and guidelines.
[0065] As
will be made apparent in the discussion that follows, Figs. 3-9 provide a
general overview of an exit row table 30 according to the present invention.
Figs. 10-15
illustrate specific embodiments of the exit row table 30 of the present
invention that highlight the
adjustable nature of the exit row table 30 of the present invention.
[0066] Figs.
3-5 illustrate one contemplated embodiment for the deployment of the exit
row table 30 from the sideboard 34.
[0067] In
Fig. 3, the exit row table 30 has been removed, almost entirely, from the
sideboard 34 and is tilted toward the front end 14 of the aircraft 10,
consistent with the top plan
view provided in Fig. 2.
[0068] The
arm 50 is visible in Fig. 3 as is the cover, 46. In the view provided in Fig.
3,
the cover 46 is shown in the opened position. In Fig. 3, the support plate 62
that connects the
arm 50 to the first leaf 58 may be seen. A table support pivot 64 connects the
support plate 62 to
the arm 50 so that the support plate 62 may rotate with respect to the arm 50.
It is contemplated
either one or both of the arm pivot 52 and the table pivot 64 may be provided
with a locking
feature so that one or both of the pivots 52, 64 may be locked by the
passenger in a preselected
position. This locking feature will be discussed in greater detail below.
[0069] With
continued reference to Fig. 3, it is noted that the arm 50 is connected to a
support 66 via the arm pivot 52. When the exit row table 30 initially is
deployed from the
compartment in the sideboard 34, the support 66 is vertically disposed.
However, the support 66
does not remain in this position. The support 66 folds downwardly toward the
passenger seat 32
so that the table surface 60 is appropriately positioned above the passenger
seat 32. As should be
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apparent, Fig. 3 illustrates the position of the exit row table 30 after the
exit row table is
deployed from the sideboard 34.
[00701 In
connection with the deployment of the exit row table 30 from the sideboard 34,
it is contemplated that the exit row table 30 will be deployable after the
cover 46 of the sideboard
34 is opened. After the cover 46 is opened, the passenger has access to the
exit row table 30. To
release the exit row table 30 from its stowed position, the passenger applies
a downward pressure
on the edge of the exit row table 30 (or other component) within the sideboard
34. The
momentary push releases the exit row table 30, permitting a damper (or other
suitable device) to
push the exit row table 30 upwardly from the compartment within the sideboard
34 to a position
that is more easily manipulated by the passenger. Fig. 3 illustrates the
position of the exit row
table 30 after having been deployed from the sideboard 34.
[0071] Fig. 4
illustrates a second manipulation of the exit row table 30 subsequent to the
release of the table from the sideboard 34. Specifically, to position the
leaves 58, 60 in a
location suitable for use by a person seated in the passenger seat 32, the
leaves 58, 60 are rotated
forward, around the arm pivot 52. As noted above, the arm pivot 52 is located
at the end of the
support 66 and at one end of the arm 50. The arm pivot 52 facilitates rotation
of the arm 50 with
respect to the support 66.
[0072] Fig. 5
is a perspective illustration of the exit row table 30 after having been
deployed above the passenger seat 32. The leaves 58, 60 have been deployed
from the folded,
stowed condition to reveal the entirety of the table surface 56.
[0073] Figs. 6-
9 are perspective illustrations of one embodiment of the mechanism 68
contemplated to be employed with the exit row table 30 of the present
invention. The
mechanism 68 is disposed on a frame 70 in this illustration. When the
mechanism 68 is
positioned within the sideboard 34, one or more elements of the frame 70 also
may be deployed
in the sideboard 34. Alternatively, the cabinet that forms the sideboard 34
may connect directly
to the mechanism 68 or any portion thereof.
[0074] The
mechanism 68 includes a rail 72 that is connected to the bottom of the frame
70. The rail 72 is connected to the bottom of the frame 70 via a bracket 74.
The rail 72 extends
vertically from the bottom of the frame 70 to a position at or near the top of
the frame 70. The
rail 72 engages a slide 76 that slides along the rail 72. The rail 72 guides
the slide 76 during its
travel therealong.
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[0075] The
slide 76 connects to the support 66 via a support pivot 78. The support pivot
78 allows the support 66 to pivot from a vertical orientation (as shown) to a
horizontal
orientation, as shown in Fig. 5, for example. Being connected in this manner,
the support 66
moves together with the slide 76. As a result, the support 66 moves along the
vertical direction
defined by the rail 72.
100761 At its
bottom end, the slide 76 connects to the top end of a scissor jack 80. The
bottom end of the scissor jack 80 connects to the rail 72. Depending upon the
depth of the
sideledge 34, it is contemplated that the bottom end of the scissor jack 80
may connect to the
bottom end of the frame 70. Still further, it is contemplated that the scissor
jack 80 may connect
the slide 76 to any portion of the interior of the sideledge 34 without
departing from the scope of
the present invention.
[0077] As
illustrated, the damper 82 connects between the slide 76 and the scissor jack
80. The damper 82 biases the scissor jack 80 to an opened position where the
support 66 extends
above the sideboard 34, exposing the support 66, the arm 52, and the table
surface 56. As noted
above, the damper 82 is designed to push the table surface 56 out from the
sideledge 34 after
being disengaged from a stowed position. When the passenger applies a
momentary downward
push onto the table surface 56, the arm 50, or the support 66, the damper 82
disengages from a
stowed condition to push the table surface 56 upwardly, thereby exposing the
table surface 56
from the compartment within the sideledge 34. This type of release mechanism
is known to
those skilled in the art and is, therefore, not discussed in greater detail
herein.
[0078] Fig. 7
is a perspective illustration of the mechanism 68 illustrated in Fig. 6, after
the support 66 has extended exteriorly to the sideboard 34. As is apparent
from this illustration,
the scissor jack 80 is in an extended condition. As a result, the support 66
and arm 50 are at least
partially exposed from the sideledge 34, consistent with the view provided in
Fig. 3.
[0079] As
noted above, the support 66 is contemplated to slide vertically along the rail
72, together with the slide 76 to which the support 66 is pivotally attached.
The slide 76
connects to the scissor jack 80 and the damper 82 such that, under the power
of the damper 82,
the slide 76 is pushed upwardly along the rail 72. As noted, after the
passenger applies a
momentary downward force on the mechanism 68, the mechanism 68 is released
from a stowed
condition within the sideledge 34.
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[0080] Once
the support 66 is exposed exterior to the sideledge 34, the arm 50 is rotated
about the arm pivot 52 as illustrated in Fig. 8. The support plate 62 is then
positioned
sufficiently forward of the passenger seat 32 that the arm 50 may be folded
down to position the
table surface 56 in front of the passenger, above the passenger's legs.
[0081] Fig. 9
illustrates the motion of the support plate 62 around the support pivot 78
(see Fig. 8), permitting the support plate 62 to be moved from a vertical
orientation to a
horizontal orientation. In this horizontal orientation, the leaves 58, 60 may
be opened to expose
the full surface area of the table surface 56.
[0082] In
Figs. 1-9, the present invention is described in connection with an exit row
table 30 according to the present invention. The exit row table 30 is
constructed so that the table
surface 56 may be pushed away from the passenger seated in the seat 32. More
specifically, the
exit row table 30 is adjustable in the longitudinal direction of the aircraft
10 such that the table
surface 56 may be pushed into the emergency exit row passage, at least to some
small degree.
As noted above, during an emergency (or other predetermined flight
conditions), it is not
permitted for any portion of the exit row table 30 to extend into any portion
of a passageway
reserved for emergency egress from the aircraft 10. It should be apparent
that, although depicted
as being located in a vicinity of an emergency exit, the table 30 might be
located anywhere else
in the cabin without departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0083] In
connection with the feature permitting the table surface 56 to be pushed away
from the passenger, three embodiments are presented in connection with Figs.
10-15. These
three embodiments are not intended to be limiting of the present patent
application. Instead, the
three embodiments are intended to illustrate the breadth and scope of the
present invention.
Where applicable, like reference numbers are used to refer to like features.
[0084] Fig.
10 is a graphical, top view of an embodiment of an exit row table 84 of the
present invention after having been deployed from the sideledge 34 and after
having been
extended to an unfolded state above the passenger seat 32. The exit passageway
86 is illustrated
in front of the passenger seat 32. A door 88 (such as an emergency exit door
or an emergency
exit portal) is positioned at the end of the exit passageway 86. The door 88
extends through the
fuselage wall 48. A window 90 is positioned rearward of the door 88, next to
the passenger seat
32.
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[0085] As indicated in Fig. 10, the arm 50 is permitted to rotate about the
arm pivot 52 in
the direction of the arrow 92. So that the table surface 56 may remain in the
correct orientation
with respect to the passenger seat 32, the table surface 56 is permitted to
rotate about the table
support pivot 64. As also indicated in Fig. 10, the exit row table 84 is
permitted to shift
forwardly and rearwardly, in the direction of the arrows 94.
100861 Fig. 11 is a graphical, top view of the exit row table 84 depicted
in Fig. 10. In this
view, the table surface 56 (along with other components) is shifted forwardly
from its initial
position by a distance 96. As is apparent from Fig. 11, the distance 96 places
the front edge 98
of the table surface 56 into the area marked as the exit passageway 86. As is
apparent in Fig. 11,
the table surface 56 has been shifted forwardly and toward the sideledge 34 by
comparison with
the position illustrated in Fig. 10
[0087] So that the leading edge 98 of the table surface 56 does not remain
within the
boundaries 100, 102 during an emergency (or any other combination of
predetermined flight
conditions), the exit row table 84 is provided with a mechanism that
facilitates automatic
retraction of the exit row table 84 under certain conditions. The mechanism is
discussed in
greater detail in connection with Fig. 16. The retracted condition of the exit
row table 84 is
illustrated in Fig. 10. The deployed condition of the exit row table 84 is
shown in Fig. 11.
[0088] Fig. 12 is a graphical, top view of another embodiment of an exit
row table 104
according to the present invention. In this view, the table surface 56 has
been unfolded and is in
the retracted position such that the leading edge 98 of the table surface 56
is not disposed within
the exit passageway 86 as defined by the boundaries 100, 102.
[0089] Fig. 13 is a graphical top view of the embodiment of the exit row
table 104
illustrated in Fig. 12. In this view, the table surface 56 has been displaced
forwardly along the
arrows 94 with respect to the passenger seat 32. The forward displacement is
indicated by the
distance 106.
[0090] To facilitate this forward translation, the arm 50 is connected to
an extension 108
that extends along the longitudinal direction of the aircraft 10. The
extension 108 permits the
table surface 56 to slide therealong, in the direction of the arrows 110.
Alternatively, the
extension 108 may slide with respect to the arm 50.
[0091] As in the previous embodiment, so that the leading edge 98 of the
table surface 56
does not remain within the boundaries 100, 102 of the exit passageway 86
during an emergency,
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the exit row table 104 is provided with a mechanism that facilitates
retraction, as discussed in
greater detail in connection with Fig. 17. As in the previous embodiment, Fig.
12 illustrates the
exit row table 104 in a retracted condition. Fig. 13 illustrates the exit row
table 104 in a
deployed (or extended) condition.
[0092] Fig. 14
is a graphical, top view of still another embodiment of an exit row table
112 according to the present invention. Fig. 14 illustrates the exit row table
112 in a retracted
condition.
[0093] Fig. 15
illustrates the exit row table 112 in a deployed or extended condition. So
that the table surface 56 may extend at least partially into the exit
passageway 86, an extension
114 is provided. The extension 114 permits the table support pivot 64 to shift
along the direction
of the arrows 116. As indicated, the table surface may extend a distance 118
from the initial
condition.
[0094] As with
the previous two embodiments, so that the leading edge 98 of the table
surface 56 does not remain within the boundaries 100, 102 of the exit
passageway 86 during an
emergency, the exit row table 112 is provided with an automatic retraction
mechanism, which is
described in greater detail in connection with Fig. 18.
[0095] Fig. 16
is graphical, top view of a portion of the exit row table 84 that is shown in
Figs. 10-11. Specifically, Fig. 16 illustrates the arm 50, arm pivot 52, and
table support pivot 64.
As noted above, the arm is pivotable around the axis defined by the arm pivot
52 as indicated by
the arrows 92.
[0096] So that
the arm 50 may be retracted during an emergency or under other
preselected conditions, the pivot 52 includes a retraction mechanism 120. The
retraction
mechanism 120 biases the arm 50 so that the arm 50 moves, as a default, into
the retracted
position illustrated in Fig. 10. So that the arm 50 will remain in a deployed
position selected by
the passenger in the seat 32, a locking mechanism 122 is provided adjacent to
the retraction
mechanism 120.
[0097] It is
noted that the passenger in the passenger seat 32 may select a deployment
position for the table surface 56 at any point between the fully retracted
position and the fully
deployed position. If the locking mechanism 122 is not activated, the table
surface 56 will
automatically default to the retracted position.
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[0098] As noted above, one aspect of the present invention is to assure
that the exit
passageway 86 in front of the passenger seat 32 remains unobstructed,
especially in the event of
an emergency that would require access to the door 88. It is for this reason,
among others, that
the retraction mechanism 120 defaults to a retracted position unless the
locking mechanism 122
is engaged. As discussed in greater detail with respect to Figs. 19-20, the
locking mechanism
122 is available to be actuated only when the seat 32 is occupied. If the seat
32 is not occupied,
a person is not able to deploy the table surface 56.
[0099] The retraction mechanism 120 may include any of a number of
different devices
for its operation. It is contemplated, for example, that the retraction
mechanism 120 may be a
pneumatic damper. Alternatively, the retraction mechanism 120 may be a
hydraulic damper.
Still further, it is contemplated that the retraction mechanism 120 may be a
spring. The
retraction mechanism 120 also may be a servo motor or a solenoid, as desired.
As should be
apparent from the foregoing, the exact construction and operation of the
retraction mechanism
120 is not critical to the operation of the present invention.
[00100] Similarly, the locking mechanism 122 may be constructed in any of a
number of
different ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. The
locking
mechanism 122 may be an electrical switch, a mechanical switch, or an electro-
mechanical
switch, as should be apparent to those skilled in the art.
[00101] In addition, the exact position of the locking mechanism 122, while
shown
adjacent to the arm pivot 52, is not critical to the operation of the present
invention. The locking
mechanism 122 may be placed at any suitable location without departing from
the scope of the
present invention. While it is contemplated that the locking mechanism 122
will be located
somewhere on the structure of the exit row table 84, the locking mechanism 122
may be
positioned remotely (e.g., on the arm rest 38) without departing from the
scope of the present
invention.
[00102] Fig. 17 is a graphical, top view of a portion of the exit row table
104 illustrated in
Figs. 12-13. Specifically, Fig. 17 illustrates the arm 50, arm pivot 52, and
table support pivot 64.
In this embodiment, an extension 108 extends from the end of the arm 50.
[00103] As should be apparent for this embodiment of the exit row table
104, the arm 50
is not contemplated to pivot around the arm pivot 52. Instead, movement of the
table surface 56
is made possible by the extension 108.
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[00104] So that the table surface 56 may be retracted during an emergency
or under other
preselected conditions, the extension 108 includes a retraction mechanism 124.
The retraction
mechanism 124 in the illustrated embodiment is contemplated to be connected to
the table
support pivot 64, which slides along the extension 108. As in the prior
embodiment, the
retraction mechanism 124 is biased so that the table support pivot 64 (and,
therefore, the table
surface 56) is in the retracted position. As before, the retracted position is
the default position
that is illustrated in Fig. 12. So that the table surface 56 will remain in a
deployed position
selected be the passenger in the seat 32, a locking mechanism 126 is provided
adjacent to the arm
pivot 52.
[00105] It is noted that the passenger in the passenger seat 32 may select
a deployment
position for the table surface 56 at any point between the fully retracted
position and the fully
deployed position. If the locking mechanism 126 is not activated, the table
surface 56 will
automatically default to the retracted position.
[00106] As noted above, one aspect of the present invention is to assure
that the exit
passageway 86 in front of the passenger seat 32 remains unobstructed,
especially in the event of
an emergency that would require access to the door 88. It is for this reason,
among others, that
the retraction mechanism 124 defaults to a retracted position unless the
locking mechanism 126
is engaged. As discussed in greater detail with respect to Figs. 19-20, the
locking mechanism
126 is available to be actuated only when the seat 32 is occupied. If the seat
32 is not occupied,
a person is not able to deploy the table surface 56.
[00107] The retraction mechanism 124 may include any of a number of
different devices
for its operation. It is contemplated, for example, that the retraction
mechanism 124 may be a
pneumatic damper. Alternatively, the retraction mechanism 124 may be a
hydraulic damper.
Still further, it is contemplated that the retraction mechanism 124 may be a
spring. The
retraction mechanism 124 also may be a servo motor or a solenoid, as desired.
As should be
apparent from the foregoing, the exact construction and operation of the
retraction mechanism
124 is not critical to the operation of the present invention.
[00108] Similarly, the locking mechanism 126 may be constructed in any of a
number of
different ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. The
locking
mechanism 126 may be an electrical switch, a mechanical switch, or an electro-
mechanical
switch, as should be apparent to those skilled in the art. In another
contemplated embodiment, it
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is contemplated that the locking mechanism 126 might be combined with the
retraction
mechanism 124. In other words, the present invention is not intended to be
limited solely to
embodiments where the retraction mechanism 124 and the locking mechanism 126
are elements
that are separate from one another.
[00109] In
addition, the exact position of the locking mechanism 126, while shown
adjacent to the arm pivot 52, is not critical to the operation of the present
invention. The locking
mechanism 126 may be placed at any suitable location without departing from
the scope of the
present invention. While it is contemplated that the locking mechanism 126
will be located
somewhere on the structure of the exit row table 104, the locking mechanism
126 may be
positioned remotely (e.g., on the arm rest 38) without departing from the
scope of the present
invention.
[00110] Fig. 18
is a graphical, top view showing a portion of the exit row table depicted in
Figs. 14-15. As should be apparent for this embodiment of the exit row table
112, the arm 50 is
not contemplated to pivot around the arm pivot 52. Instead, movement of the
table surface 56 is
made possible by the extension 114.
[00111] So that
the table surface 56 may be retracted during an emergency or under other
preselected conditions, the extension 114 includes a retraction mechanism 128.
The retraction
mechanism 128 in the illustrated embodiment is contemplated to be connected to
the table
support pivot 64, which slides along the extension 114. As in the prior
embodiment, the
retraction mechanism 128 is biased so that the table support pivot 64 (and,
therefore, the table
surface 56) is in the retracted position. As before, the retracted position is
the default position
that is illustrated in Fig. 13. So that the table surface 56 will remain in a
deployed position
selected be the passenger in the seat 32, a locking mechanism 130 is provided
adjacent to the arm
pivot 52.
[00112] It is
noted that the passenger in the passenger seat 32 may select a deployment
position for the table surface 56 at any point between the fully retracted
position and the fully
deployed position. If the locking mechanism 130 is not activated, the table
surface 56 will
automatically default to the retracted position.
[00113] As
noted above, one aspect of the present invention is to assure that the exit
passageway 86 in front of the passenger seat 32 remains unobstructed,
especially in the event of
an emergency that would require access to the door 88. It is for this reason,
among others, that
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the retraction mechanism 128 defaults to a retracted position unless the
locking mechanism 130
is engaged. As discussed in greater detail with respect to Figs. 19-20, the
locking mechanism
130 is available to be actuated only when the seat 32 is occupied. If the seat
32 is not occupied,
a person is not able to deploy the table surface 56.
[00114] The retraction mechanism 128 may include any of a number of
different devices
for its operation. It is contemplated, for example, that the retraction
mechanism 128 may be a
pneumatic damper. Alternatively, the retraction mechanism 128 may be a
hydraulic damper.
Still further, it is contemplated that the retraction mechanism 128 may be a
spring. The
retraction mechanism 128 also may be a servo motor or a solenoid, as desired.
As should be
apparent from the foregoing, the exact construction and operation of the
retraction mechanism
128 is not critical to the operation of the present invention.
[00115] Similarly, the locking mechanism 130 may be constructed in any of a
number of
different ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. The
locking
mechanism 130 may be an electrical switch, a mechanical switch, or an electro-
mechanical
switch, as should be apparent to those skilled in the art.
[00116] In addition, the exact position of the locking mechanism 130, while
shown
adjacent to the arm pivot 52, is not critical to the operation of the present
invention. The locking
mechanism 130 may be placed at any suitable location without departing from
the scope of the
present invention. While it is contemplated that the locking mechanism 130
will be located
somewhere on the structure of the exit row table 112, the locking mechanism
130 may be
positioned remotely (e.g., on the arm rest 38) without departing from the
scope of the present
invention.
[00117] In connection with the embodiments described in connection with
Figs. 10-15, it
is noted that features from any of the three embodiments of the exit row table
84, 104, 112 may
be combined without departing from the scope of the present invention. For
example, the exit
row table 112 may incorporate the retraction mechanism 120 in connection with
the arm pivot
52. The same retraction mechanism 120 may be provided in the same location for
the exit row
table 104. Furthermore, the retraction mechanisms 120, 124, 128 from all three
embodiments
may be combined into a single table without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[00118] Fig. 19 is a graphical side view of a passenger seat 32 with the
exit row table 84
illustrated in Figs. 10-11. It is noted that Fig. 19 is equally illustrative
of the other exit row
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tables 30, 104, 112. As illustrated in Fig. 19, for context, the seat 32 is
disposed on legs 132 that
are connected to the floor 134 of the aircraft 10.
[00119] A seat
sensor 136 is disposed in the seat 32 , for example within the seat cushion
36, and is operatively connected to the retraction mechanism 120 associated
with the exit row
table 84. The seat sensor 136 is contemplated to be a weight sensor that
detects if a sufficiently
large amount of weight is present in the seat 32. If the weight on the seat 32
exceeds a
predetermined amount, the seat sensor 136 provides a signal to the retraction
mechanism 120 or
the locking mechanism 122 to permit locking of the table surface 56 in a
preselected position.
[00120] It is
noted that the seat sensor 136 need not be a weight sensor. It is contemplated
that the seat sensor 136 may include one or more sensors that operate
independently or together
with one another to measure parameters indicative of a person being seated in
the passenger seat
32. Weight is only one variable that may be detected.
[00121] Fig. 20
provides a flow chart that illustrates one contemplated method for the
operation of the exit row table 30, 84, 104, 112 of the present invention. As
noted above, the exit
row table 30, 84, 104, 112 is biased into a retracted condition (after having
been removed from
the stowage location in the sideboard 34) such that the leading edge 98 of the
table surface 56
does not extend between the boundaries 100, 102 of the exit passageway 86. For
the table
surface 56 to be lockable in a deployed position, at least two conditions must
be met: (1) there
must be a person seated in the seat 32, and (2) the flight condition of the
aircraft 10 must permit
deployment of the table surface 56.
[00122] As for
the first condition, as noted above, a seat sensor 136 is provided in the
passenger seat 32. The seat sensor 136 is contemplated to sense if a
sufficient amount of weight
is present on the seat. In other words, the seat sensor 136 provides a weight
signal. If the weight
signal exceeds a predetermined minimum, then the first condition is satisfied.
[00123] The
second condition may be satisfied by any of a number of different inputs that
are available on board the aircraft 10. It is contemplated that the second
condition is satisfied
when the aircraft is not in a taxi, takeoff, and landing ("TTL") mode of
operation. During flight,
it is contemplated that the second condition is satisfied when the aircraft 10
is not experiencing
turbulence or other conditions where retraction of the table surface 56 is
desirable.
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[00124] In the
discussion that follows, it is contemplated that the first condition is
satisfied
when a weight in excess of a predetermine amount is present in the seat 32.
The second
condition is considered to be satisfied when the aircraft is not in a TTL mode
of operation.
[00125] Fig.
20 illustrates the iterative nature of the method of operation of the exit row
table 30, 84, 104, 112 of the present invention.
[00126] The
method 138 begins at step 140 where the method 138 enquires if
predetermined conditions exist on board the aircraft 10. Specifically, the
method 138 determines
if the aircraft 10 is in a flight mode of operation (i.e., a non-TTL mode of
operation). If the
method 138 determines that predetermined conditions exist and that the
aircraft 10 is not in a
TTL mode of operation, then the method 138 proceeds to step 142. If the method
138
determines that predetermined conditions do not exist, this means that the
aircraft 10 is no longer
in a flight mode and that the aircraft 10 is preparing for taxi, takeoff, and
landing. As a result,
the method 138 proceeds to step 146 where an unlocking command is generated.
The unlocking
command causes the exit row table 30, 84, 104, 112 to return to the retracted
condition.
[00127] After
determining that predetermined conditions exist on the aircraft 10 suitable
for deployment of the exit row table 30, 84, 104, 112, the method 138 proceeds
to step 144,
where the method 138 determines if the seat 32 is occupied. If the seat is
occupied, the method
138 proceeds to step 144 where locking of the exit row table 30, 84, 104, 112
in a deployed
condition is permitted. If the seat 32 is not occupied, the method 138
proceeds to step 146,
where the unlocking command is generated.
[00128] As
should be apparent, when the unlocking command is generated at step 146, the
method proceeds to step 148 where the table surface 56 is retracted. If the
table surface 56 is not
deployed, then retraction of the table surface 56 is not necessary, since the
table surface 56
automatically biases to the retracted condition, as discussed above.
[00129] With
continued reference to Fig. 20, it is noted that steps 142 and 144 of the
method 138 may be repeated after a periodic time period t. As such, the method
138 may detect
if a person has left the seat 32 and moved to another location on the aircraft
10. If so, the method
138 is designed to detect this change and retract the exit row table 30, 84,
104, 112.
[00130]
Similarly, the entirety of the method 138 may be executed periodically for the
same reason. As such, if the conditions on board the aircraft 10 change, the
exit row table 30,
84, 104, 112 will be retracted.
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[00131] Fig. 21
illustrates one additional embodiment contemplated of an exit row table
150 according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the exit row table
150 excludes a
locking mechanism 122. Instead, the exit row table 150 is provided with a
combined holding
and retraction mechanism 152. The holding and retraction mechanism 152 in
contemplated to
combine the functionality of the locking mechanism 122 and the retraction
mechanism 120
illustrated in Fig. 19. As should be apparent, this embodiment also may be
considered to
combine the locking mechanisms and the retraction mechanisms of others of the
embodiments
described herein.
[00132] In
operation, the exit row table 150 is contemplated to function as follows. When
a passenger is seated in the seat 32 and actuates the seat sensor 136, the
holding and retraction
mechanism 152 permits the passenger to position the table surface 56 in any
suitable location.
The table surface 56, however, is not locked in the position. Instead, the
table surface 56 is
maintained in the position selected by the passenger. In this embodiment, it
is contemplated that
the table surface 56 is freely movable to any position between a retracted
position and a deployed
position without locking the table in a fixed position. Any suitable
mechanism, as should be
apparent to those skilled in the art may be employed without departing from
the scope of the
present invention.
[00133] When
the passenger gets up from the seat 32 and, thereby alters the input to the
seat sensor 136, it is contemplated in one embodiment that the holding and
retraction mechanism
152 will retract the table surface 56 to a retracted position. Alternatively,
if the flight conditions
of the aircraft 10 require that the table surface 56 be in a retracted
position, the holding and
retraction mechanism 152 will retract the table surface 56 to the retracted
position and prevent
positioning of the table surface at any position between the retracted
position and the deployed
position.
[00134] Fig. 22
is a flow chart illustrating the steps of a method 154 of operation
contemplated for the exit row table 150 illustrated in Fig. 21. This method
154 is similar to the
method 138 illustrated in Fig. 20, except that the locking aspect of that
method 138 has been
removed consistent with the construction of the exit row table 150.
[00135] As
illustrated, the method 154 starts at a step 156 where the method determines
if
predetermined flight conditions exist. As noted above, the predetermined
conditions include
conditions where the aircraft 10 is not in a TTL mode of operation or
experiencing turbulence,
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for example. The method 154 proceeds to step 158, where the method 154
determines if the seat
32 is occupied. If so, the table surface may be positioned in accordance with
step 160. If the
seat is not occupied, the method 154 proceeds to step 162, where the table
surface 56 is retracted.
In one alternative embodiment, if the predetermined conditions for the flying
of the aircraft 10 do
not exist (i.e., the aircraft 10 is in a TTL mode of operation), the table
surface 56 is retracted as
indicated in step 162. In yet another alternative embodiment, it is
contemplated that the table
surface 56 will remain in the deployed position even if the seat 32 is not
occupied but the aircraft
is operating such that the predetermined flight conditions do not exist (i.e.,
the aircraft 10 is in
a TTL mode of operation). In all other aspects, the method 154 is considered
to be similar to the
method 138 as described above.
[00136] A
should be apparent from the foregoing, it is contemplated that there are two
conditions that affect the whether or not the table surface 56 is retracted or
deployable. The first
condition is the flight condition of the aircraft 10. The second is the
occupancy of the seat 32, as
measured by the seat sensor 136. Either one or both of these conditions may
have an impact on
the deployability of the table surface 56. For example, if the aircraft 10 is
in a flight mode
excluding a TTL mode of operation, for example, this means that the aircraft
10 is in a condition
where the table surface 56 may be deployed. It is contemplated, in one mode of
operation, that
the table surface 56 is deployable when the seat 32 is unoccupied and
predetermined flight
conditions are met. In a second contemplated mode of operation, the seat 32
must be occupied
and the aircraft 10 must meet the predetermined flight criteria for the table
surface 56 to be
deployable.
[00137] While
the exit row tables 30, 84, 104, 112, 150 have been discussed in connection
with an embodiment for a seat 32 adjacent to an exit passageway 86, it is
noted that the exit row
tables 30, 84, 104, 112, 150 of the present invention may be used at any
location within the
aircraft without departing from the scope of the present invention. In other
words, the exit row
tables 30, 84, 104, 112, 150 may be employed in any location, as should be
apparent to those
skilled in the art.
[001381 As
noted above, the embodiment(s) described herein are intended to be exemplary
of the wide breadth of the present invention. Variations and equivalents of
the described
embodiment(s) are intended to be encompassed by the present invention, as if
described herein.
